Manchester City was held to a disappointing 0-0 stalemate by Southampton on Saturday, as the supporters who flocked to the Etihad Stadium in response to Pep Guardiola's request were disappointed with the team's performance.
The city had scored 16 goals in their previous three home games, but Southampton's well-drilled defense restrained the champions' typically powerful assault.
The city is now three points behind leaders Liverpool, with Manchester United and Chelsea ready to leapfrog them if they avoid loss on Sunday.
Following his midweek dispute with supporters, Guardiola was greeted warmly by a near-capacity crowd.
Guardiola had upset a segment of City's supporters by calling for greater support after just 38,062 attended Wednesday's 6-3 Champions League triumph against Leipzig at the Etihad.
The low attendance was owing in part to the virtually total absence of Leipzig supporters, and the attendance was considerably closer to Etihad's 55,000-capacity for Southampton's visit.
After Guardiola's rallying call, fans generated a lively environment, screaming the Spaniard's name and cheering their side on, even though the players failed to rise to the moment.
Clear-cut chances were few as City failed to register a single attempt on goal in the first half.
They gradually gained possession, and Sterling sent Ilkay Gundogan in on goal, but Saints goalkeeper Alex McCarthy was quick to deal with the threat.
Sterling, making his first league start since the season began, and Gabriel Jesus worked effectively together at times.
After the restart, Southampton increased the tempo, with Che Adams dragging an attempt across goal.
Moss made no hesitation in pointing to the spot and was ready to show Walker the red card.
However, following a VAR review, the referee was invited to watch the entire event again on the monitor.
Much to ManCity's relief, he decided to rescind the penalty and overturn the dismissal.
Guardiola replied to the lull by bringing in Kevin De Bruyne, Riyad Mahrez, and Phil Foden off the bench in rapid succession.
Southampton pressed forward, with Adams looping his attempt wide.
When Sterling slammed home the rebound after McCarthy saved Foden's header, City believed they had found a way through.
Moss ruled out the offside attempt, and a few tense minutes ensued before VAR confirmed the call.
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